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Saudi Arabia on Wednesday announced it has joined the International Maritime Security Construct to secure the Mideast’s waterways.
The Saudi Press Agency (SPA), quoted a statement by the Ministry of Defence stating that, “The kingdom’s accession to this international alliance comes in support of regional and international efforts to deter and counter threats to maritime navigation and global trade in order to ensure global energy security and the continued flow of energy supplies to the global economy and contribute to maintain the international peace and security.”
The International Maritime Security Construct is a US-led international alliance that aims to protect merchant ships and ensure freedom of maritime navigation and international trade. Its operation area covers the Strait of Hormuz, Bab Al Mandab, the Sea of Oman and the Arabian Gulf.
About 40% of the world’s seaborne oil travels through the Strait of Hormuz. The US and UK have stepped up their military presence in the region amid calls to ensure the waterway remains open.
The International Maritime Security Construct task force is headquartered in Bahrain, and its members include the US, the UK, Australia as well as the host country.